How To Ship A Car Across The US: A Complete Guide to Vehicle Transport
If you want to move a car from one part of the United States to another, it is best to ship it. It is actually very simple to ship a car across the United States if you are prepared. Whether you are moving, buying a car, or simply want to know how to ship a car across the country, the questions you may be asking yourself are probably about how much does it cost to ship a car and what are my options? Read on for more.
Table of Contents
How Car Shipping Works in the US
Once you know the modes of shipping a car across the United States, what is included in them and the car shipping rates and transit times, you can choose the best car shipping mode, depending on your car shipping needs and the shipping value of your car.
There are two main types of car transport available throughout the United States, open transport and enclosed transport. Someone can use either form of transport depending on the specific car type, the level of protection that someone requires, and the overall budget someone has available.
| Shipping Method | Cost | Protection | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Transport | Affordable | Less protection | Standard vehicles |
| Enclosed Transport | Expensive | High protection | Luxury, classic cars |
Cost of Shipping a Car Across the US
As a result, it can cost from 500 US dollars to 1500 US dollars to ship a car to its destination within the United States. The last price relies on these things:
- Distance: The shipping cost goes up along with the increase of the distance. Shipping a car from California into New York costs more than shipping it from one California location to another.
- Vehicle Size and Weight: Trucks or SUVs ship at a higher cost than sedans due to their large size and also greater weight.
- Shipping Method: Enclosed transport costs more than open transport although the former is better protected.
- Seasonality: Shipping costs often are subject to change according to the season. You might find summer prices are higher if you want to ship a car because that is when demand for transport increases.
Detailed Aspects of Shipping a Car Across the US
Now that you understand how to ship a car, with knowledge of how the shipping cost determines amounts, let’s dive into the details about how to ship a car. We will discuss the steps that include car shipping preparation and selection of a car shipping company.
Preparing Your Car for Shipping
You must prepare to ensure that you experience pleasant shipping of your vehicle. The following recommendations will help.
- Car Cleaning: Car cleaning before shipping eases the inspection process and helps document the car’s condition during shipping.
- Personal items must be removed because most shipping companies do not allow personal items inside of the vehicle during shipping. Take away all personal items. Avoid security issues. Avoid additional fees.
- Check fluid levels: There are generally fluid levels you must maintain, while the shipping company may have other requirements, such as having the gas tank no more than a quarter full, for safety.
- Prior Damage Should Be Noted: A picture of the car must be taken before shipment to document any prior damage upon the car before damage occurs while shipping.
Choosing the Right Shipping Company
When you select a shipping company, you ship your car cross country in the United States toward your destination so it arrives safely and on time.
Check the company’s reputation plus read what people review upon Google or Trustpilot. Ensure the company offers improved customer service against its competitors in the field.
- Experience: Choose a company with experience shipping cars across the US especially over long distances or to or from particular states or regions.
- Insurance: Check the insurance policy at the company. Most car shipping companies insure, basically, but if you ship a luxury or classic car, you must add on insurance.
- Track and Communicate: Look for a company that tracks your vehicle and communicates well to avoid issues down the line.
Customizing Your Shipping Experience
Many car shipping companies will also allow you to select additional services, such as door-to-door service, expedited shipping, or direct delivery of the vehicle from them to your home or location of choice. These choices might cost more yet are easier for customers without the time or desire to go to the terminal.
Understanding the Paperwork and Documentation
When shipping a car out of state, several documents are required during the process in order to ensure smooth transportation.
- Insurance Documentation: Shipping companies typically provide basic insurance. You may need to provide proof of the car’s existing insurance coverage.
- Bill of Lading: The contract of carriage for you and the shipping line which outlines the terms of shipment.
- ID and Registration: Depending on the shipping company, one may need to identify oneself and register the car as part of the shipping process.
Comparison of Car Shipping Companies
Choosing the right shipping company is an important part of the process. To give you an idea of what is out there, let’s look at Company An and Company B.
Company A – Affordable and Fast
Company A’s rates are average for open transport, and the delivery time is acceptable. The service is reliable in that they don’t overprice their basic insurance, which is sufficient for most cars.
- Benefits: Prices are low. It is reliable. Delivery is fast. Customer support is good.
- Cons: Limited protection, no enclosed transport capability.
Company B – Premium Service with Extra Protection
Company B offers enclosed transport, door-to-door delivery and expedited transport. It is best suited for high-end and luxury vehicles. It is usually more expensive than Company A.
- Pros: High coverage, suitable for luxury cars, extra services, attentive customer support.
- Cons: More expensive, longer delivery times for long-distance shipments.
| Feature | Company A (Open Transport) | Company B (Enclosed Transport) |
|---|---|---|
| Shipping Method | Open transport | Enclosed transport |
| Delivery Time | (e.g.) 5–7 days (domestic) | (e.g.) 7–14 days (domestic) |
| Insurance Coverage | Basic coverage | Comprehensive (higher-value) |
| Cost | Affordable | Expensive |
| Customer Service | Reliable | Premium |
Practical Tips for Shipping a Car Across the US
Also, here are some tips for shipping a car across the US to make it even easier:
Plan Ahead and Book Early
Plan ahead. The earlier you’re able to get started on the car shipping process, the greater the chance of obtaining a favorable price and the method of delivery you desire.
Consider Additional Services
If your car is valuable or a luxury model, then although open transport is much cheaper, you may prefer to consider enclosed transport. Likewise, if something is convenient for you, you may want to consider transporting fast or transporting from door to door instead of going from terminal to terminal or terminal to door.
Get Multiple Quotes
Reach out to many shipping companies to get quotes. Compare price, services, and reviews from previous customers then choose for shipping.
Ensure Proper Documentation
Having all your documents and paperwork ready before the car is picked up will prevent them from holding up the shipping process afterward.
Inspect Your Car Upon Delivery
When the car arrives, check the vehicle for damages via a comparison with the pictures taken before shipping and file a damage claim if it is necessary.
Wrap Up
Shipping a car across the United States needs no difficulty. You can make the process easier by knowing about what your shipping options are, how to choose a Canadian Car shipping company, and how to prepare your car for shipment. Here are a few steps for making shipping your items from the United States to Canada as easy as possible, whether you opt for our economical open transport service or our more costly enclosed shipping option.